Applying a Penetrating Stain and Sealer By Matt Weber Wood remains the top building material for exterior projects because it has a lot going for it. It’s affordable, easy to work with, versatile, and maintains a natural look that blends with the outdoor surroundings. But wood requires maintenance and occasional recoating to keep it looking good and performing well. […]
Tools & Materials for the Outdoor Retreat Spring will be here before we know it, making late winter an ideal time to get a head start on that backyard deck project. Knock out some work while the weather is still cool, and you’ll be having fun in the sun by the time summer rolls around. Here’s a roundup of new—and […]
By Matt Weber Staining and Sealing to Fight Mother Nature. The natural beauty, durability and affordability of wood are what keep pressure-treated lumber at the top of the list of materials for decking and outdoor projects. However, all outdoor wood, including cedar, cypress and even hardwoods, should be well maintained and protected from weather to ensure a […]
By Matt Weber I spent most of last spring building a big deck, so I wanted a big set of stairs to match. A width between seven to eight feet seemed like ample space for walking and be large enough to give the nearly 40-foot deck a visually complementary stair design. I had left the deck handrail unfinished […]
Q: What type of wood do you suggest for building outdoor projects? A: Whether you’re building a deck, gazebo, raised garden bed or front porch, using natural, authentic wood is an excellent choice that affords several different options. Pressure-treated wood is the number one decking material in the country, and a long-time favorite of DIYers, builders and remodelers everywhere. […]
By Brent Gwatney Few things in life beat having a cold one on your deck while chicken wings and pork chops sizzle on the barbecue and hickory smoke fills the air. What other part of the home invites relaxation or forget-about-work partying with friends like the deck? For many of us, the design and construction of […]
